Kathy Hochul Surprises New Yorkers With Important Announcement

New Yorkers will be pleased to hear that Governor Hochul has announced more than $5 million to support addiction outreach and engagement services...

Photo byMTA via Wikimedia Commons

Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced more than $5.5 million to support addiction outreach and engagement services in New York State. "My administration remains committed to implementing a multi-faceted strategy to address the opioid and overdose epidemic across New York," she said. "Through this more than $5.5 million award, we can help connect high-need individuals to the care they need to improve their health and well-being."

According to a press release by the Governor's office, teams will visit high-risk areas to connect individuals to treatment and other support services. "Clinic Model treatment teams will deliver clinical treatment services like medication to treat addiction, and will also include peers who will deliver harm reduction services."

"The outreach efforts supported by this funding will help to ensure that high-risk populations that have been underserved for many years will have access to the treatment and support services they need," said Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan. "This is a lifesaving step in our efforts to address addiction."

"It is vital that we continue to address the barriers that many people face when accessing addiction services," said Office of Addiction Services and Supports Commissioner Chinazo Cunningham. "These two initiatives, which expand already successful existing services, will be critical in supporting our ongoing efforts to reach high-need populations, wherever they are, and connect them to lifesaving services to support their health."

"New York State is facing an opioid epidemic," said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. "It's so important that all residents dealing with the effects of substance use disorder know they have support. I know Governor Hochul is committed to ensuring that underserved communities have access to lifesaving resources that can help them overcome addiction and live healthy and fulfilling lives."

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